5 new uses for tin cans

One of my daughter’s chores is unloading and loading the dishes, and every time she notices a tin can in the dishwasher she says, “Mom, we don’t have room for this,” with great teenage exasperation.

Needless to say, she’s grown a little weary of my growing tin can collection. But, I love having tin cans on hand.

I’ve tried explaining to her that you just never know when you’re going to need one, and I give her convincing examples like these:

~Paint Brush Soakers

I mentioned the other day that I’m a lazy painter. That is even more true when it comes to clean up. One of my stall tactics is to let my paint brushes soak overnight, or several nights. Rather than dirty up dishes or storage containers, I use a tin can.

Fill the can with warm water and a drop or two of dish soap, and let your paint brush soak overnight.

~Collect Cooking Grease

Y’all know I love to cook, but I always dread it when I have to deal with grease from browning meat. I do not like to pour it down the drain because grease can harden and ruin plumbing. I prefer not to dump it in the yard, and we try to avoid putting liquids in our garbage can.

So, I was super proud of myself when I realized that the solution was a tin can. Simply put a funnel over the can and pour the grease from the pot into it. Let the grease harden, then throw it away.

~Corral Supplies

I’m a big proponent of “a place for everything and everything in its place.” And I find that when I have a system in place, my family uses it.

Here, tin cans hold our loose change and chalk pens.

You could use them to corral kitchen utensils, desk supplies, school supplies, craft items…whatever your heart desires.

~Mini Trash Can

Tin cans also make great mini trash cans. I have used tin cans to collect lint in the laundry room. Or you could use it to collect odds and ends found in pockets while doing laundry.

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Comments

Some great ideas there! I don’t collect tin cans…I’ve got a thing for glass bottles and jars. It is addictive to say the least…no matter what you collect. Bottles these days have so many unique shapes…especially liquor bottles. Thank goodness I have two sons who donate occasionally to my collection! And by occasionally, I mean years! 😉

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I’m Mrs. Hines, a.k.a. Sharon. I’m a wife, a mother and a teacher. I’m also an extroverted introvert who is partial to red wine and loves live music. My home and the beach are in a tie for my favorite happy places. And I love to laugh.